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Posted on Sat, Sep 22, 2012 : 5:15 p.m.

Dog treats sold nationwide by Target recalled after testing positive for Salmonella

By Lorrie Shaw

Bully sticks are also referred to as "pizzles".

flickr photo by tsuacctnt

Many dog owners indulge their pets' craving to chew with various rubber and synthetic toys, bones and other popular products like tracheas, tendons and antlers.

Bully sticks are another product that is marketed for dogs, and, while usually they are safe, a recall was issued on one company's product.

According to the Food and Drug Administration, Kasel Associated Industries of Denver, Colo. is recalling their Boots & Barkley American Beef Bully Sticks, after finished product was tested in Colorado because of contamination with salmonella.

The product was distributed nationwide through Target stores from April through September 2012.

The product was distributed in a clear plastic bags, containing 6 bully sticks each marked with bar code number 647263899189.

The following lots numbers tested positive for the pathogen when State of Colorado Department of Agriculture officials analyzed them:

BESTBY20APR2014DEN

BESTBY01JUN2014DEN

BESTBY23JUN2014DEN

BESTBY23SEP2014DEN

Because these lots tested positive, it's important to note that all lot numbers that have the corresponding bar code are being recalled.

Salmonella, also referred to as salmonellosis, causes digestive problems, and dogs will typically present with fever, diarrhea, vomiting and weakness. Other symptoms can occur.

Salmonella is a zoonotic disease, meaning that it can be passed to humans as well, so care needs to be taken. Hand washing is a must — even when handling dry pet food that may be contaminated with the bacteria.

Because there are more than 2,000 strains of salmonella, it's the most common cause behind pet product recalls. Very young and very old pets are most susceptible to the bacteria and suffer the effects most profoundly. The most common symptoms associated with salmonella are vomiting, diarrhea and fever. Companion animals presenting with symptoms are treated with IV fluids and antibiotics.

That being said, salmonella can affect other animals — not just the dogs who chew on the pig ears. There is risk to humans from handling contaminated pet products. People handling dry pet food and/or treats can become infected with salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the chew sticks or any surfaces exposed to any contaminated product.

The product can be returned to the store where it was purchased for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 1-800-218-4417 Monday - Friday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. (MDT).

You can count on AnnArbor.com to have up-to-date information on pet product related recalls available. Click here to search our archives of previous recalls.